12 songs that Morrissey named as his favorites

Morrissey’s favorite songs are a reflection of his character: enigmatic, complex, and controversial. The iconic musician who is accused of much such as racism, has named his favorite songs.

Morrissey has often been criticized as an arrogant person, but a closer examination of his life and personality reveals that he is not. Did you know that Morrissey is vegan? Morrissey became a vegetarian at the age of 12 and has been a vegan since the early 1980s. Considering that Morrissey has become vegan for ethical reasons, one can say with 100% certainty that he is an empathetic and sensitive person.

Steven Patrick Morrissey‘s childhood was spent in Queen’s Square, Old Trafford, in the 1960s. He grew up in an altitude with very strong family ties. He lived with his mother. His aunt and grandmother lived on the same street. All three lived next door to each other.

Although he did not have a very social life as a child, Morrissey was never a pessimistic child. He spent most of his time in his room writing and reading. In an interview with Morrissey, he said:

“I never had a social life I never left the house….The only way that I could find any mental relaxation is to simply go out and to walk around the streets… 

I spend a great deal of time sitting in the bedroom, writing furiously, and feeling that I was terribly important and that everything that I wrote would go down in the annals of history or whatever, and it’s proved to be quite true.“

As a person, Morrissey has a reputation for being an introverted and private individual. He’s known for his strong convictions and outspoken opinions on various topics, which have led to both praise and criticism.

Which band is the singer Morrissey most associated with?

The Smiths released a total of four studio albums with Morrissey as their lead vocalist:

1. The Smiths (1984)
2. Meat Is Murder (1985)
3. The Queen Is Dead (1986)
4. Strangeways, Here We Come (1987)

Morrissey’s favorite songs

Here are Morrissey’s favorite songs and a playlist:

1. Jet Boy by New York Dolls (1973)
2. This Town Ain’t Big Enough For Both of Us by Sparks (1974)
3. Saturday Nite Special by The Sundown Playboys (1966)
4. Young, Gifted, and Black by Bob & Marcia (1970)
5. Be Young, Be Foolish, Be Happy by The Tams (1968)
6. Soldier Blue by Buffy Sainte-Marie (1970)
7. Granada by Al Martino (1954)
8. Mighty Joe by Shocking Blue (1969)
9. The Crystals by All Grown Up (1962)
10.  I’ve Been A Bad, Bad Boy by Paul Jones(1967)
11. The Supremes by I’m Livin’ In Shame (1969)
12. Roxy Music by Do The Strand (1973)

Jet Boy by New York Dolls (1973)

Released in 1973 Jet Boy is a song by the New York Dolls. The New York Dolls were a rock band known for their glam and punk style. The song is about a rebellious and free-spirited character named Jet Boy.

The New York Dolls had a unique look and sound, and this song reflects that. With its raw energy and catchy rhythm, Jet Boy showcases the band’s attitude and style. While it might not be their most famous song, it still carries the essence of the New York Dolls’ edgy and iconic presence in the rock scene.

This Town Ain’t Big Enough For Both of Us by Sparks (1974)

This Town Ain’t Big Enough For Both of Us is a song by Sparks, released in 1974. Sparks is a band known for their unique and eccentric music style. The song is about a situation where two big personalities can’t coexist in the same place.

The song’s catchy melody and theatrical vocals make it stand out. Sparks had a way of blending rock and pop with quirky elements, and this song is a great example. With its energetic pace and playful lyrics, “This Town Ain’t Big Enough For Both of Us” showcases Sparks’ distinct sound. While it might not be their biggest hit, the song captures their artistic and imaginative approach to music.

Saturday Nite Special by The Sundown Playboys (1966)

Saturday Nite Special is a song by The Sundown Playboys, released in 1966. The Sundown Playboys were a Cajun music group from Louisiana. The song is about having a good time on a Saturday night with music and dancing.

The Cajun style of music gives it a unique flavor that reflects the culture of Louisiana. Even though it might not be their most well-known song, it captures the spirit of a lively Cajun party and the joy of celebrating with music.

Young, Gifted, and Black by Bob & Marcia (1970)

Young, Gifted, and Black is a song by Bob & Marcia, released in 1970. The song celebrates being young, talented, and proud of one’s heritage. It’s a positive and empowering anthem.

Young, Gifted, and Black is a mix of reggae and soul influences, reflecting the musical diversity of the time. While it might not be their most famous song, it carries a powerful message of self-confidence and self-expression.

Be Young, Be Foolish, Be Happy by The Tams

Be Young, Be Foolish, Be Happy is a song by The Tams, released in 1968. The song is a soulful and upbeat track that encourages listeners to embrace the carefree spirit of youth. With its catchy melody and joyful lyrics, it became a popular anthem that celebrated the idea of living life to the fullest and enjoying simple pleasures.

The Tams is an American vocal group from Atlanta, Georgia. While they might not have achieved as much mainstream recognition as some other acts, they were highly regarded in the soul and R&B music scene. Be Young, Be Foolish, Be Happy remains one of their most enduring hits, embodying the spirit of positivity and exuberance that continues to resonate with audiences.

Soldier Blue by Buffy Sainte-Marie (1970)

Soldier Blue is a song by Buffy Sainte-Marie, released in 1970. The song was written for the soundtrack of the movie of the same name, which dealt with the harsh realities of violence and injustice during conflicts between Native Americans and settlers in the American West.

Buffy Sainte-Marie, a Canadian-American singer-songwriter and social activist, used her music to address important social and political issues. Soldier Blue is a poignant and emotional folk song that reflects the pain and suffering caused by warfare and colonization.

Granada by Al Martino (1954)

Granada is a classic song performed by Al Martino, released in 1954. The song is a romantic ballad that pays homage to the beauty and charm of the city of Granada in Spain.

Al Martino’s rendition of Granada is characterized by his smooth and emotive vocals, which bring out the romantic essence of the song. The lyrics express a deep admiration for Granada’s landscapes, architecture, and culture, painting a vivid picture of the city’s allure.

While “Granada” is not one of Al Martino’s most well-known songs, his heartfelt delivery and the song’s timeless melody have made it a cherished piece of his repertoire.

Mighty Joe by Shocking Blue (1969)

Mighty Joe is a song by Shocking Blue, released in 1969. Shocking Blue was a Dutch rock band known for their psychedelic and bluesy sound. The song tells the story of Mighty Joe, a strong and powerful character.

The song’s upbeat guitar and dynamic vocals give it a rock feel. Mariska Veres, the lead singer, adds a unique touch with her soulful voice. Mighty Joe is a mix of rock, blues, and the cool vibe of the late 1960s.

All Grown Up by The Crystals  (1962)

All Grown Up is a song by The Crystals, released in 1962. The Crystals were a girl group known for their pop and R&B music. The song talks about growing up and becoming more mature. It’s about how things change as you get older. The song has a catchy melody and the group’s sweet harmonies make it sound nice.

Even though it might not be their most well-known song, All Grown Up is a piece of music history that gives us a glimpse into the music of the early 1960s. It’s a song that shows how music can capture different moments and feelings in life.

I’ve Been A Bad, Bad Boy by Paul Jones  (1967)

I’ve Been A Bad, Bad Boy is a song by Paul Jones, released in 1967. Paul Jones is a British singer and actor. The song is about someone admitting they haven’t been very good and have made mistakes. The song has a bluesy feel and talks about being a bit rebellious.

Paul Jones, known for his vocals and harmonica skills, delivered this song with a mix of playfulness and honesty. The song’s rhythm and blues style gives it a cool and groovy vibe that was popular during the 1960s. While it might not be as famous as some other songs, “I’ve Been A Bad, Bad Boy” still brings a touch of that era’s music and attitude.

I’m Livin’ In Shame by The Supremes (1969)

I’m Livin’ In Shame is a song by The Supremes, released in 1969. The Supremes were a famous girl group from the United States. The song is about a woman who feels embarrassed about her background and tries to hide it from others. She’s living a different life than she grew up in.

The song’s emotional vocals and storytelling style show the Supremes’ talent. They sing about important topics like identity and acceptance. The music has a mix of soul and pop, which were their signature sounds. Even though it might not be their most remembered song, “I’m Livin’ In Shame” gives us a glimpse into the thoughts and feelings of the time and shows how music can talk about real life.

Do The Strand by Roxy Music (1973)

Do The Strand is a song by Roxy Music, released in 1973. Roxy Music is a British band known for its innovative and eclectic music. The song is about dancing and having a good time. It’s an invitation to a dance called The Strand.

The song’s upbeat tempo and mix of rock and pop make it catchy and fun. Roxy Music was known for blending different styles, and this song is a great example of that. With its energetic rhythm and playful lyrics, Do The Strand encourages people to let loose and enjoy themselves on the dance floor.

Morrissey’s favorite songs reflect his soul.  Through these chosen songs, Morrissey’s passion for music shines brightly. They show us that, just like any music lover, he’s drawn to melodies that resonate and lyrics that linger in the mind. These favorites are a reminder that, despite fame, at the core of it all, Morrissey remains an avid enthusiast of the art that moves us all.